Knee replacement alternatives
Medical guidelines include all methods of treatment and recommends nonsurgical intervention in most cases with mild to moderate pain. Thus, surgical procedures like knee replacement are not considered the first line of treatment. Many patients neglect the alternative non-invasive pathways of treatment. Orthopedics always have to take into consideration that knee replacement is the last resort for almost all patients, and that they should not choose that option unless nonsurgical methods of treatment no longer make noticeable progress, so if you complain from knee pain you should consider all your options.
› We are going to cover the top five alternative and approved methods of treatment with the most considerable efficacy.
1. Medications
Medications are the most common option patients and physicians tend to choose. Although doctors typically try to limit the number of medications prescribed to avoid interaction and side effects, there are different medications for knee arthritis that have proven their efficacy and potent action. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are said to be the first line of treatment especially in arthritis cases regardless of its cause, and they can be quite effective in relieving the pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with knee arthritis. Although all NSAIDs are available in most pharmacies, physicians tend to prescribe diclofenac for its reported effectiveness in reducing knee pain. NSAIDs are well-tolerated by most patients and are rarely found to cause hypersensitivity.
In addition to NSAIDs, steroids are well reputed for their potent analgesic action but unfortunately, some patients are contraindicated to take steroids, so you should ask the doctor before taking them. Glucosamine sulfate and hyaluronic acid are considered a minor class and an adjuvant medication but somehow they have been successful in reducing knee arthritis symptoms.
